Abstract
Introduction: Global medical advances within healthcare have
subsequently led to the widespread introduction of biological products
such as grafts, haemostats, and sealants. Although these products have
been used for many decades, this subject is frequently not discussed
during the consent process and remains an area of contention. Methods: A
nationwide confidential online survey was distributed to UK-based junior
registrars (ST3-5), senior registrars (ST6-8), post-CCT fellows,
specialist associates/staff grade doctors and consultants working in
general/vascular surgery, neurosurgery, otolaryngology, oral &
maxillofacial surgery and plastic surgery. Results: Data was collected
from a total of 308 survey respondents. Biological derivatives were
correctly identified in surgical products by only 25% of survey
respondents, only 19% stated that they regularly consent for use of
these products. Our results demonstrate that most participants in this
study do not routinely consent (81%) to the intra-operative use of
biological materials. An overwhelming 74% of participants agreed that
further education on the intra-operative use of biological materials
would be valuable. Discussion: This study highlights deficiencies in
knowledge that results in potential ethical compromise of the consenting
process for surgical procedures. A solution to this would be for
clinicians to increase their awareness via educational platforms and to
incorporate an additional statement on the consent form which addresses
the potential intraoperative use of biological products and what their
derivatives may be. Conclusion: Modernising the current consent process
to reflect the development and use of surgical biological products will
help to ensure improved patient satisfaction, fewer future legal
implications as well as a better surgeon-patient relationship.